Our Services

Swimming is one of our strongest recommendations for most K9's. It is an ideal form of exercise for a number of reasons. We offer swimming and underwater treadmill in a warm water environment . This non- or low-impact workout is ideal for senior citizens, arthritc/ overweight dogs and those that have difficulty exercising on land. Swimming is offered through our "Training with Trish" fitness program.

Our swim lessons are very popular for puppies and dogs of all ages. We use a variety of techniques to make this a positive experience for them and we usually have them quite comfortable and ready to continue on their own with one session.

• Swimming in a controlled environment is the safest way for clients to exercise.
• Most important: they have fun!

Underwater Treadmill

The underwater treadmill is ideal for dogs cross training for competition or work. It allows high level training without damage to the joints caused by high impact land training. This is especially beneficial for the large breeds. Many more muscles groups are used in the water throughout the work out thus producing a significant increase in muscle mass and strength.

We find the underwater treadmill very helpful in regulating the pace of a dogs gait. Many dogs do not want to slow down once they get their momentum going. Running is much easier than walking for them; they do not challenge their balance and coordination systems nearly as much as when walking. The smaller breeds do EVERYTHING fast; the treadmill forces them to slow down We often do 15 minutes with the treadmill followed by 15 minutes of swim time to achieve optimal results in each session.

• Variable speed
• Water height is regulated to accommodate the individual needs of each dog (partial weight-bearing to full weight-bearing

• Works the dog's muscles in a functional closed chain exercise manner
• Great conditioning/cross training

Training With Trish

Our Get Fit-Stay Healthy program "Training with Trish-Personal Training for dogs" includes diet and nutritional counseling, weight management, cross training for sports, show and working dogs; instruction in massage, stretching and home exercise programs. These services are also incorporated in our rehab programs.

With our year round nice weather in San Diego, we have many people who are able to swim their dogs after we have introduced them to the swimming experience.

There are many stories about dogs drowning in backyard pools. This is a preventable tragedy. We can help "pool- proof" your dog.

• Introduction to the Water
• Pool Safety Training
• Swimming Lessons for all Ages

• High Level Cardio Workout Plans
• Nutritional Counseling
• Click here for full details on the Training With Trish program»

Modalities - Electric Stimulation & Ultrasound

Modalities such as Electric Stim can be used for pain reduction/muscle re-education/healing. An active muscle contraction can be activated which stimulates the neurological pathway to give the brain feedback that a paralyzed or weak muscle is still there ready to do its job. Micro- stim promotes and accelerates the healing process for muscles, tendons and bone. Ultrasound is a form of deep heat that promotes healing of the tissue while breaking down scar tissue.

These modalities are offered at local vet hospitals.

Massage Therapy

Massage can be done superficially or deeply into the muscles. Superficially, It is used for general increased circulation and feeling of well-being. Deep tissue massage actually gets into the muscle and releases the tension or spasm. All massage increases circulation, decreases muscle stiffness, decreases stress and restores balance of different muscle groups. Combining massage with stretching is most beneficial and we can teach these techniques to the dog owner.

Veterinary referral required

Carts/Splints

We offer measuring and fitting of carts, splints and other assistive devices. We can work with you and your dog during the learning phase of introducing new equipment to them.

Who Else Can Benefit From Swim Therapy?